When Sedona Fire District Governing Board Chairman Dave Soto asked those to stand who traveled to see the swearing in of the new chief, more than 40 people rose.
A very good sign, Soto noted.
More than 100 people turned out to Station 1 on Tuesday, Sept. 3, for the transfer of command from acting chief Jayson Coil to Jon Trautwein, who was hired in June. He replaces Chief Kris Kazian and was serving as deputy chief for the Pasadena Fire Department in Southern California prior to accepting the job. Coil will remain with SFD and will serve as interim assistant chief.
“This past January, Chief Coil stepped into a vacancy as the result of the departure of our last fire chief,” Soto said. “I feel, and I’m sure my fellow board members would agree, Chief Coil has done an outstanding job as our interim fire chief.”
Sedona Mayor Sandy Moriarty was one of a handful of those from the city who were asked to sit in on the hiring process for the new chief, something she said was an honor and privilege to do.
“Chief Trautwein, congratulations on being hired and welcome to Sedona,” she said. “Jayson, I want to thank you for your service — you’ve done a wonderful job. The city has always had a very good relationship with the fire department. You’re part of the Sedona family and we look forward to continuing to work with you.”
Trautwein thanked the board for choosing him and noted the support he’s received so far from the administrative staff and firefighters. He also praised Coil for the work he’s done and that he was the right person to step up and accept that interim position. By doing so it ensured continuity and a smooth transition when hiring a new chief.
“The closer I got to standing in front of all of you today, I got drawn in and the more enthusiastic I became for the Sedona Fire District,” he said. “This is a great place with great firefighters and administrative staff that has shown great teamwork and leadership. It’s an exciting opportunity for me to be part of it.”
Ron Eland can be reached at 282-7795, ext 122 or by email at reland@larsonnewspapers.com
